Πέμπτη, 23 Φεβρουαρίου 2012

-The aim of the
catechumenate is to assist people interested in becoming an Orthodox Christian
along their journey. During the catechumenate, basics of Orthodox theology are
being discussed, but the most important is the
catechumens to become part of the community through prayer and
common life. Also they are encouraged to participate in worship as often as
possible. They are suggested to read the Bible and Orthodox theology, but it is
not compulsory to read over certain publications.

- The
whole matter has been adjusted to meet better the local way of life and parish.
It is shorter, because three years is too long time for ordinary catechumens to
prepare themselves. They come from many backgrounds, Muslims, Anglicans, Lutherans,
Buddhists, but now more and more also from non-religious background. One year
has seemed to be a proper time for becoming mature enough to become a member of
the Orthodox Church. However, we have wanted to start the cathecumenate from
the beginning, from the creation and not to concentrate only on “Orthodox way
of thinking and doing things” , either to compare different Christian views, or
to follow basic rules etc.

- So people interested in becoming a member of the Orthodox Church are first
asked to meet a priest to discuss their “interest and motives” and then he
suggests them catechumenate. It can last one year or less. Finally
they are baptized or chrismated on a big feast like Epiphany, Easter or
Pentecost, like the first catechumens from the early years of the Church.

- Therefore
they meet the responsible priest for the cathechumenate usually 3-5 times
in a month to discuss or to participate in the services and two times
before the baptism/chrismation they participate in confession.

-Topics discussed during the autumn term:

The creation

Orthodox understanding of human being (image and
likeness)

The fall

Church year and great feasts

Beginning to pray and Orthodox services, church music

Revelation, Bible and Tradition

Christ – the fulfillment of the revelation

The saints (Catechumens start to find their own patron
saint)

Jesus Christ and his teachings

The Holy Trinity; The symbol
of faith

The Great Lent, the first week
of Lent, the Liturgy of pre-sanctified gifts)

The Sacrament of Confession
and Anointing sick

Liturgy, the Eucharist and
preparing yourself for the Holy Communion.

Priesthood, Holy Matrimony

The Pentecost; Church – a body
of living stones

Great feasts and fasts, traditions (blessing of the maters,
commemorating deceased etc.)